Flax seed oil is being rediscovered as a true health food and is definately on the top-ten list of "Most Benifitial Foods". Flax is not a new food. It is actually one of the older and, perhaps, one of the original "health foods," treasured because of its healing properties throughout the Roman empire. Flax could be dubbed the "forgotten oil." It has fallen out of favor because oil manufacturers have found nutritious oils to be less profitable. The very nutrients that give flax its nutritional benefits - essential fatty acids - also give it a short shelf life, making it more expensive to produce, transport, and store.

Some nutritionists, researchers, and scientists believe that it could be the most important health-promoting supplement next to a multi-vitamin. Nearly every system in the body can benefit from flax seed oil's natural properties, including the cardiovascular system, immune system, circulatory system, reproductive system, nervous system, as well as joints.

Flax seed is a rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are important substances for heart health. You may have heard in the media about flax seed and cholesterol. This is because the Omega-3 content can help lower LDL (the bad cholesterol that clogs arteries) and help increase HDL (the good cholesterol that helps clean them). Flax seed also harbors anti-inflammatory properties, which may help a broad range of health conditions. The main benefit of flax seed oil seems to lie in its ALA fatty acid content. However, the ALA in flax seed needs to be converted by your body to long chained

Omega-3 fats. It is these Omega-3 fatty acids that are then utilized by the body in a variety of ways.

Health Benifits of Flas Seed Oil

• Studies show that Omega-3 fatty acids help lower cholesterol and blood triglycerides, and prevent clots in arteries, which may result in strokes, heart attacks and thromboses.
• Helps protect the body against high blood pressure, inflammation, water retention, sticky platelets and lowered immune function.
• Can often improve the function of the liver.
• Increases the body's production of energy and also increases stamina.
• Shortens recovery time for fatigued muscles after exertion.
• Eases weight loss in people afflicted with obesity.
• Improves the absorption of Calcium.
• Can relieve the side effects and stop development of many forms of cancer.
• Can relieve the symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis. It can relieve the symptoms of Diabetes Mellitus.
• Can improve the mental function of many old age pensioners.
• Has been scientifically proven to treat some cases of depression.

Unfortunately, our current diets do not come close to meeting our daily EFA (essential fatty acids) requirements. The richest sources of EFAs such as flax seeds, cold-water fish, and soy and canola oils are rarely found in our regular meals. In addition, more typical foods like red meats and egg yolks can actually encourage the body's production of bad prostaglandins. Flax Seed oil can help restore the body's natural balance of good and bad prostaglandins.

How much do I take a day?

The recommended daily dose for most people is at least 1,000 mg taken one to three times daily. Even better is adding flax seeds into your diet in breads, muffins or on salads. Scientific studies have used up to 30 grams of flax seeds a day safely and without side effects.

What do I look for when buying Flax Seed Oil?

It's important to buy high-quality flax seed oil as it is prone to rancidity. Light and oxygen will slowly breakdown the essential fatty acids. Look for flax seed oil capsules (dark coated soft gels) or oil that is bottled in amber-brown bottles, as these are more resistant to the light and oxygen. Make sure you refrigerate your flax seed oil to help extend its shelf life.

Flax seed oil takes a bit of time to be absorbed into the body before the full beneficial effects begin, ranging anywhere from a few days to as many as six weeks, depending on your overall well-being.

Add Flax Seed to your diet and watch what it will do for you! If you're unsure about trying Flax Seed, contact your physician and ask for more information.